Counselling in Schools and Prisons

I provide counselling in Primary and Secondary schools, working with pupils aged 5-18 years. Covering topics such as self-esteem, peer pressure, relationships at home, adolescence, bullying, course work, anxiety, substance misuse (drugs and alcohol), mental health (parents and young people) bereavement and loss, poverty due to recession, domestic violence (in relation to parents and the impact it has on children) also young people who are involved in volatile relationships, post-traumatic stress syndrome, gang concerns, homelessness, children with emotional difficulties, disruptive and challenging behaviour within school and sexuality.

Young people come for counselling as they often cannot tell us when things are difficult for them. Sometimes children cannot find the words to express their feelings or know what is bothering them. All they know is that they feel sad and nothing feels right.

How I Work
My work is non-directive, this means that the young person sets the agenda for the session. The material is completely directed by the child and that is what is explored. It may be difficult for children who need counselling, to leave school and go to either a clinic or a private counsellor on a regular basis. This can feel disruptive and could present parents with problems such as having to take time of work and travelling issues. Our services are unique as we offer to see the children/young people in their schools.

By doing this we hope to minimise their loss of their lesson-time and activities. We arrange with the school for a suitable private room for the counselling to take place in. We also consult with teachers to ensure that the most appropriate times for the counselling sessions are arranged.

Current Client
Islington Creative Media School

Previous Clients
Newfield Primary School (Brent)
Working using child centred therapy. Through art therapy I enabled the child to express their feelings through play. This is very effective when supporting a child through emotional and behavioural difficulties that are often displayed in the classroom and playground

Working in prisons is via referrals from parents, partners and family members. Counselling is provided on a weekly, fortnightly or monthly basis to prisoners who are having difficulty whilst in custody.